Working out can sometimes seem like you are putting in a lot of effort with little to no results. Many of us experience these same thoughts – so what gives? First and foremost, it is important to keep your eye on the prize. You aren’t going to see results immediately, especially if you want lasting results. Secondly, really believing in these four not-so ‘secret’ secrets will get you far in your journey.
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Check your ego at the door.
For lack of better words, we don’t need any more meathead douchebags in this world. Sure, by all means, lift until your heart is content but no need to have an attitude that is bigger than a football field. Please, keep your ego in check. Don’t try and be the biggest guy in the gym that can lift the most weight. Instead, be extremely particular and picky about your form. According to the NFPT (National Federation for Personal Trainers) having the proper form prevents injury, encourages muscle targeting and stimulates correct breathing techniques leading to quicker gains. People around you will notice your changes, gains and overall healthier physique but don’t let this inflate your head. Remember, you once walked into the gym feeling unsure of yourself or what to do and possibly self-conscious too – don’t forget that. Use your newfound ‘reputation’ to help the next person.
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Food is 80% of the equation.
Please believe, when the thousands upon thousands of experts in the fitness and nutrition industry tell you that you cannot out train a bad diet – it is literally impossible. Okay let me rephrase: if you eat like crap but are consuming a smaller amount of calories than before, then sure you can see some improvements, but if you are still eating like crap then are you really all that healthy? Sticking to whole foods and not over-eating are some of the best rules you can follow. And please allow yourself some ‘cheat’ days to stay sane.
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Train with someone better than you.
Some people can and like to train by themselves, but studies show that training with someone else has huge benefits. Training with someone who is better than you will push you to better yourself. This doesn’t mean go crazy and try and list as much as them (remember tip #1), but the extra push is sometimes exactly what you need mentally. Mentally we give up before anything physically gives up. Plus you will probably learn more from the person and have more fun!
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You don’t need ‘supplements’.
I use this term ‘supplements’ very lightly as I obviously so believe that some supplements are great for the body via vitamins, minerals, and natural energy. What I am referring to here is please lay off the steroids, HGH, extreme fat burners or any other similar products. People assumed that in order to have a fit physique you have to be taking some “secret” supplement. There aren’t any ‘secret’ miracle supplements. As you learned from tip #2, it is all about what you eat and keeping up with consistent workouts that challenge you.
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Pay attention to your body.
Especially as you get older it is important to pay attention to what your body is telling you. If you are feeling overly sore or tight in an area, don’t push it – nurture it instead. I know we can get caught up in our heads and thinking that if we skip a day or the body part we are supposed to be working on will set us back in our gains. This is not true, especially if pushing through it leads to injury. Rest is just as important as working out.
So there you have it, the not-so ‘secret’ secrets you REALLY should be paying attention to!
